By Akinsuroju Abiodun Olubunmi
Protests Erupt Across Nigerian Cities Demanding Justice for MohBad.
Following the controversy surrounding the sudden death of 27-year-old music star Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, widely known as MohBad, protests have erupted in multiple Nigerian cities, including Abeokuta, Akure, Ikorodu, and Warri. The demonstrations, led by passionate students wielding placards, aim to seek justice for the late singer.
Hundreds of young individuals took to the streets on Tuesday in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, advocating for justice in MohBad’s case. The protesting crowd congregated at the skating ground in Panseke, subsequently marching through Ibara to Oke-Ilewo, before returning to Panseke. Security personnel were present to ensure the peaceful nature of the protest remained intact, guarding against potential disruptions by unruly elements.
In a parallel demonstration, youths in Akure, the capital of Ondo State, donned black attire as they marched through the city, holding aloft placards that called for justice for MohBad. Their collective voice resonated with chants demanding accountability for the singer’s untimely demise.
In Ikorodu, Lagos State, hundreds of youths gathered at the Okeletu bus-stop, demanding justice for MohBad. Carrying placards adorned with images of the late artist, they fervently chanted, ‘We need justic
e for MohBad,’ while marching through the streets, urging a thorough investigation into any potential foul play.
Kazeem Ayinde, one of the youths, expressed that the rally was a gesture of their final respects to the late musician. He announced plans for a candlelight event later in the day to commemorate MohBad’s passing.
During a visit to MohBad’s residence in Ikorodu at Okeletu, Mrs. Felicia Adedara, the grandmother of the deceased, conveyed that they would refrain from discussing any matters related to the death until the investigation was concluded. She mentioned that MohBad’s father had engaged the police to aid in their inquiries.
NAN correspondents reported that sympathizers at the residence commended the Nigeria Police for their swift intervention and implored them to uncover the truth surrounding the death promptly. They emphasized the impact of MohBad’s generosity in the community and urged for a thorough investigation into those responsible for his demise.
In response to the mounting public concern, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called upon the Department of State Services (DSS) to collaborate in the investigation. He has also directed that anyone involved in events leading to MohBad’s death be held accountable after a comprehensive inquiry.
The Lagos State police command has already initiated a substantial investigation, assembling a 19-member panel to unravel the mystery behind the musician’s passing. The state government, in a statement, expressed condolences and emphasized the need for a meticulous inquiry into the circumstances surrounding MohBad’s death.
Youth activists also convened at Effurun Roundabout in Warri, Delta State, demanding justice for MohBad. They marched with placards, fervently chanting ‘We need justice,’ amplifying the nationwide call for answers.
In Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji urged police authorities to leave no stone unturned in uncovering the truth behind MohBad’s demise. He stressed that justice must prevail through a thorough investigation, offering condolences to the family and fans of the late singer.
Furthermore, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana, has formally requested a Coroner’s Inquest into MohBad’s death. In a letter addressed to the Chief Coroner, High Court of Lagos State, Falana emphasized the need for a comprehensive examination of the circumstances surrounding the tragic loss of the promising young musician.
Falana’s law firm underscored the urgency of the inquest, highlighting the provision in the Lagos State Coroner’s Law 2007 that mandates an inquest in cases of violent, unnatural, or suspicious deaths. They expressed confidence in the expeditious consideration of their request.
The demand for justice in MohBad’s case continues to reverberate across the nation, as the public and legal community rally for transparency and accountability in the investigation surrounding his untimely passing.